Snorting Ritalin | Effects & Dangers Of Methylphenidate Insufflation

There are many medications that treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, including Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, and others. 

Ritalin (the brand name for methylphenidate) is a prescription stimulant medication used to help treat the symptoms of ADHD (impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention).

Ritalin is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. The prescription medication can be broken down and snorted, but this is considered Ritalin abuse and can cause serious health concerns, especially if taken in large doses.

Side Effects Of Snorting Ritalin

Ritalin works like many other stimulants in that it targets the central nervous system (CNS). When snorting Ritalin, the dose enters your bloodstream much more quickly than if it were taken as prescribed by your doctor. 

Common Side Effects

This central nervous system stimulant, when abused, can cause harmful side effects. First, however, you may experience common side effects such as:

• insomnia
• nervousness
• hypersensitivity
• nausea
• changes in blood pressure
• abdominal pain
• drowsiness
• headache
• loss of appetite
• fluctuations in heart rate
• libido changes

Harmful Side Effects

Snorting Ritalin can also cause more serious health problems that may include:

• psychosis
• anorexia
• serotonin syndrome
• abnormal liver function

Dangers Of Snorting Ritalin

When you snort Ritalin, this stimulant drug hits your system fast. Ritalin use in this manner can lead to overdoses and intense withdrawal symptoms.

Snorting Ritalin can also lead to a constant runny nose, nose bleeds, and feeling the need to constantly clear your throat. 

Ritalin Overdose

Some of the symptoms one might experience when suffering from a Ritalin overdose include:

• muscle twitching
• vomiting
• headache
• delirium
• dryness of mucous membranes
• hypertension
• hallucinations
• blocked blood vessels
• tremors
• agitation
• convulsions
• irregular heartbeat
• coma

An overdose of Ritalin can simply occur because the person abusing the drug is taking higher doses than prescribed. Of course, there can be other factors that contribute to an overdose:

• Does the person have alcohol in their system?
• When did the person take their last dose?
• How much Ritalin has the person taken?
• Is the person mixing other prescription drugs or illicit drugs?

Ritalin Withdrawal

Those partaking in Ritalin misuse may begin to suffer from Ritalin withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal can occur more easily when Ritalin is snorted or abused. 

Ritalin withdrawal symptoms may include:

• severe depression, especially in those who have a history of mental health struggles
• panic and anxiety
• disturbed sleep patterns
• fatigue

Those who experience severe depression may also have thoughts of self-harm. This is why it’s extremely important to undergo a detox program if you’re suffering from Ritalin drug abuse and taking the stimulant in high doses.

Ritalin Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one suffer from substance abuse, professional care is available. We offer inpatient and outpatient treatment programs that include cognitive behavioral therapy to help change unhealthy thinking and attitudes about drug use.

To learn more about our recovery services, please connect with us today.